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Gov. Shumlin, Porter Airlines announce deal for air service to Toronto

MONTPELIER – Gov. Peter Shumlin and Porter Airlines CEO Robert Deluce today announced a public-private effort to bring seasonal airline service from Toronto into Burlington International Airport beginning in mid-December.

With twice-weekly roundtrip flights from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport to Burlington beginning on Dec. 15 until April 8, visitors from Ontario will enjoy easy access to some of Vermont’s best skiing and a rich assortment of local attractions.

“This is a great partnership that will boost tourism in Vermont and provide an economic boost to our ski areas,” Gov. Shumlin said. He said if this initial winter service is successful, it is anticipated that Porter Airlines will expand the service in the winter and add service in the summer and fall

In a joint statement, Sens. Patrick Leahy and Bernie Sanders, and Rep. Peter Welch said, “Porter Airlines, Ski Vermont, Governor Shumlin, the Burlington International Airport and Customs and Border Protection came together to introduce the people of Toronto to the best skiing and riding in the U.S.A. This announcement underscores the ‘international’ in Burlington International Airport, creating seasonal scheduled nonstop service between Toronto and Burlington. While it will offer a much-needed influx of visitors to the state this winter, especially needed following the devastating blow of Hurricane Irene, it will also give Vermonters an unprecedented opportunity to visit and do business in Toronto.”

Senator Leahy, Senator Sanders and Congressman Welch wrote to Porter Airlines this summer inviting them to begin service between Toronto and Burlington. This fall, the lawmakers have worked with the airport and other stakeholders to help iron out details surrounding clearing international visitors at the airport.

“Our new service to Vermont is a perfect complement to our current winter schedule already featuring prime destinations such as MontTremblant and Quebec City,” said Deluce. “Burlington offers access to an incredible array of spectacular ski mountains, and many vibrant communities to explore.”

The Burlington schedule includes weekly roundtrips on Thursdays and Sundays, with the exception of long weekends, which offer Thursday and Monday roundtrip options. One-way fares start as low as $99, plus applicable fees and taxes.

Special Porter ski packages from Stowe Mountain Resort, Jay Peak, Smugglers Notch and Sugarbush will be offered at the Ski, Snowboard & Travel show in Toronto, October 13-16, and at www.skivermont.com in the coming week.

Funding for this international travel initiative is equal parts public and private funding. The state’s Global Trade Fund will invest nearly $200,000. Participating Vermont ski areas will invest $75,000 to market the new Toronto air route. Burlington International Airport will make structural upgrades as part of the project.

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